The Safest European Countries in 2022
Safety is a massive factor when it comes to travel. After all, no one wants to visit somewhere where they’ll be constantly on edge, looking over their shoulder! Luckily for potential visitors, Europe is generally a very safe continent. But what are the safest countries in Europe?
If you’re looking to plan your very own Euro trip, you’ve come to the right place. To help you choose your next destination, we’ve dived into all the facts and figures to put together this list of the safest European countries.
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How Did We Decide the Safest European Countries?
To assemble this list of the safest countries in Europe, we have used our own travel experience, combined with the results of the Global Peace Index (2022 edition). This annual report compiled by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), weighs up a number of factors to determine the world’s safest countries, including perceived criminality within society, crime rates and militarisation.
Each country is given a ranking and then put in a league table. 163 countries are listed in the GPI and as of 2022, seven of the safest countries in the world are located in Europe. That is quite some achievement!
To make it easy for you to cross-reference the countries listed, we have clearly stated their position within the Global Peace Index along with their GPI score, based on the many factors used to compile the report. To provide some context, every country listed below has a better GPI rating than the United States which sits at position 129 out of 163.
The Top 7 Safest Countries in Europe
Disclaimer: International travel safety advice can change quickly and often without warning. Before you visit any destination, you should always do your own research to ensure that you understand any potential risks associated with visiting a specific country.
1. Iceland
- Global Peace Index ranking: 1/163
- Global Peace Index score: 1.107
According to the GPI, Iceland is officially the safest country in Europe. In fact, it is actually the safest country in the world and has been since the introduction of the GPI back in 2008! With a small population of around just 350,000, visitors to Iceland report describing a warm welcome and community feel.
Unlike in most countries, petty crime is uncommon here with more serious and violent incidents being outright unusual. As such, it is a great destination for solo travellers. Relatedly, Iceland was again recently ranked the most gender-equal country in the world, making it a great destination for women.
Arguably the biggest concern for travellers to Iceland should be the impact of the almighty Mother Nature. Iceland is known for its epic landscapes and rugged terrain but this can present additional risks. Flooding, avalanches and landslides can and do happen. These kinds of events can also have an impact on road travel, causing main routes to be closed, sometimes for months at a time.
Well known for its challenging and rewarding treks, hikers visiting Iceland should make sure to keep a close eye on weather conditions as storms can pull in quickly and pose a danger to those on the trails. Likewise, those trekking should always make sure that they are carrying a GPS, especially in more remote areas of the country.
Traveller Highlights in Iceland:
- Take on one of Europe’s best hikes! The Laugavegur Trail is a multi-day trek which weaves through the epic landscapes of southern Iceland.
- Drive the famous Golden Circle. Arguably the country’s most famous road trip, this route will showcase national parks, geysers and even thermal baths!
- Marvel at the northern lights. Also known as the aurora borealis, Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see this natural wonder.
- Laze in the Blue Lagoon spa. Thermal baths and incredible views? Sign us up!
- Go chasing waterfalls. For photographers and nature lovers alike, the incredible Dettifoss waterfall will not disappoint.
2. Ireland
- Global Peace Index ranking: 3/163
- Global Peace Index score: 1.288
Famous for its fabulously friendly welcome (top o’ the morning to ya!), Ireland is the second-safest country in Europe. Every year, the country attracts millions of visitors, most of whom visit to check out the lush green landscapes, dramatic coastline and rich cultural heritage. It has also become increasingly popular with genealogy tourists.
The transport infrastructure in Ireland is pretty good and the roads are generally well maintained – however, you should always be aware of potholes, especially in more rural areas. If you are planning to rent a car for your trip, keep in mind that in Ireland they drive on the left-hand side.
Crime levels in Ireland are generally pretty low but you should still follow basic personal safety protocols to protect yourself and your belongings, especially in larger cities such as Dublin. Most crime tends to occur when alcohol has been involved so don’t linger on the streets after a night out and get a taxi back to your accommodation.
The Cliffs of Moher are one of the country’s largest tourist attractions and understandably so. If you are visiting this area, take heed of any warning signs and do not veer from the established walking paths. There have sadly been incidents of some travellers falling to their deaths after straying from the official trail.
Traveller Highlights in Ireland:
- Enjoy a night out at Temple Bar in Dublin. Trust us when we say that the Irish know how to party!
- Walk along the Cliffs of Moher. These vertigo-inducing cliffs offer jaw-dropping views out to the Aran Islands.
- Road trip the Ring of Kerry. This 11-mile loop is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of Ireland. While it can be driven in around three and half hours if you don’t stop, we recommend turning this into a day event!
- Take a trip to Skellig Michael. Used as the filming destination for Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Skellig Micheal is home to an island monastery and promises to be a magical stop on any Ireland itinerary.
- Kiss the Blarney Stone. Located at Blarney Castle, this tradition has been around for centuries. It is said that visitors that kiss the Blarney Stone will be given the gift of persuasiveness and eloquence. Who doesn’t want a bit of that?!
Want to learn more about the world’s safest countries? Check out the following posts:
- The Safest Countries in South America
- Safest Asian Countries
3. Denmark
- Global Peace Index ranking: 4/163
- Global Peace Index score: 1.296
With low levels of organised conflict and violent crime, Denmark is a very safe destination. Much like other Scandinavian countries, Denmark is a frontrunner when it comes to social issues and the happiness levels of its population.
Petty crime is low even in the big cities, although we always advise keeping your valuables close and not leaving your belongings unattended. In 2021, Copenhagen was christened the safest city in the entire world by the Economist.
The risk from natural disasters is pretty much non-existent in Denmark and the road rules are usually obeyed. If you are a pedestrian, you will also be expected to obey the rules of the road. There are heavy fines and potential prison time for those caught drunk driving or speeding.
Tourist infrastructure in the country is generally very good and it is easy to get around. Despite English not being the national language, most locals will have some degree of conversationality so if you get lost, just ask someone for help and they are likely to oblige.
Traveller Highlights in Denmark:
- See the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen. Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s character, this statue was given as a gift to the country in 1913.
- Visit the Viking Ship Museum. Situated in Roskilde, this museum provides an excellent insight into the history of Denmark and the world’s most fearsome seafarers.
- Take in the sights by bike. As one of the flattest countries in the world, Denmark is a haven for cyclists.
- Explore Kronborg Castle. Believed to be in part the inspiration for Shakespeare’s play Hamlet (despite the Bard never having visited himself), this impressive fortress is a must-visit.
- Be a kid at Legoland. Who said that grown-ups can’t still play with Lego?!
4. Austria
- Global Peace Index ranking: 5/163
- Global Peace Index score: 1.3
Let’s have a show of Hans for everybody who expected Austria to be on our list of safest European countries… (See what I did there? ) Bad puns aside, Austria has long been a popular destination with travellers looking to visit Europe.
It is overall incredibly safe, with all crime levels pretty low. There is risk of being pickpocketed on public transport but this is far from a common occurrence. As with any visit to a place you’re not familiar with, the best advice is to keep your valuables hidden and be vigilant when you’re out and about.
Austria is a great destination for first-time travellers because it has a rich cultural history to explore. Many people speak English in the country so if you get lost or need help, you will likely share a common language, at least to some degree.
Best known as a winter destination for its amazing skiing, travellers should be aware of the usual risks associated with alpine destinations. Avalanches and mudslides happen and you should always make sure to check the weather before you head out for the day. As always with any kind of adventure activity, tell somebody where you are going before you leave.
Traveller Highlights in Austria:
- Go skiing. Austria is one of the best winter destinations in the entire world!
- See where the Sound of Music was filmed. It might be an oldie but it sure is a goodie! This classic movie starring Julie Andrews was shot all around Salzburg and is a must-do for any fan.
- Visit the Music Capital of the World. Vienna is the home of musical prodigies such as Mozart and Beethoven!
- Explore the cute Christmas markets. For around a month, tiny winter wonderlands pop up in different cities all over the country!
- Check out Treppe ins Nichts. Also known in English as ‘The Stairway to Nothingness’, this glass shelf offers incredible 360 views (if you’re brave enough! ).
5. Portugal
- Global Peace Index ranking: 6/163
- Global Peace Index score: 1.301
Portugal is a hugely popular destination for backpackers, expats and digital nomads travelling Europe. With astounding coastline, slick cities, rich culture and mouthwatering cuisine, Portugal is a great all-round destination.
The country is extremely safe, ranking at number six overall on the Global Peace Index’s 2022 report. This makes it the fifth-safest country in Europe. It has good relationships with its neighbours and the political system is generally viewed as stable.
The biggest risk to travellers is pickpocketing which frequently happens on public transport and in tourist areas. I was actually pickpocketed on the metro in Porto travelling to the airport. Never leave your belongings unattended and always keep a close eye on your surroundings. Travel insurance is a good recommendation too!
As Portugal is such a popular tourist destination, scams that specifically target visitors can and do happen. You should always trust your gut and never hand money over before you have received the goods or services requested.
Traveller Highlights in Portugal:
- Enjoy a pastel de nata. Arguably one of the finest foods in Europe, the Portuguese custard tart is guaranteed to make you drool.
- Ride the waves in Porto. Porto is the perfect city break and as if that wasn’t reason enough to visit, it is right on the beach. Surfing is huge here and lessons are available to beginners.
- Nature spot at Ria Formosa National Park. Located in the Algarve, this diverse ecosystem is home to a number of rare and interesting species. Grab a pair of binoculars and look to the skies for inspiration.
- Take a boat trip. The Douro wine region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is just itching to be explored. A boat trip is a great way to take in the cultural landscape of this beautiful area.
- Journey onboard the Lisbon trams. Tourist trap or not? You decide.
6. Slovenia
- Global Peace Index ranking: 7/163
- Global Peace Index score: 1.316
Slovenia is a destination often overlooked by those heading to Europe. It really shouldn’t be though! Mostly, the country attracts visitors in search of idyllic scenery and amazing natural wonders.
Arguably the most famous tourist hotspot there is Lake Bled which promises postcard-perfect views at every turn. Slovenia is also known to be immaculately clean, further heightening the natural beauty that sits all around.
Levels of violent crime are low and political instability is not much of a concern. With a low rate of militarisation, it is an extremely safe destination. As such, it attracts lots of solo tourists as well as intrepid families!
Although in general, the risk of scams is low, reports do come in about taxi drivers charging overinflated fairs, especially from and to airports. If in doubt, refuse to ride and instead wait for a taxi with a meter.
Traveller Highlights in Slovenia:
- Visit Lake Bled. Fresh mountain air, epic castles and clear waters await those that journey to Slovenia’s biggest attraction.
- Explore Slovenia’s capital city. Ljubljana is full of character. When you’re there, visit the castle atop the hill, wander around the colourful streets and take your pick of the delicious local fare.
- See the Škocjan Caves. I know what you’re thinking, caves can get a bit samey, right? Not the Škocjan Caves! This UNESCO World Heritage Site needs to be seen to be believed!
- Hike! Home to some of the most incredible scenery in the entire world, there is no shortage of incredible hiking trails all over Slovenia. Triglav National Park is an absolute must-visit for walkers.
- Rent a car and hit the road. Nothing beats the freedom of travelling on your own schedule and feeling the wind in your hair.
7. Czech Republic
- Global Peace Index ranking: 8/163
- Global Peace Index score: 1.318
Did you know that the Czech Republic is home to the most castles in Europe? It is also the final European country to make it into the top 10 safest countries in the world. Most well known for the gothic city of Prague, there is much more to this former Soviet state than its capital.
There is a very low terrorism risk in the Czech Republic and violent crime is rare. Despite this, travellers are always recommended to stay away from deserted areas of the cities, especially around the outskirts.
Natural disasters are not a huge concern here, however, flooding does happen during the spring months. Always check the forecast and be prepared to be flexible with your plans whenever possible.
The main risk to travellers is scams. Although these are not by any means a huge threat, they do happen, especially in Prague. One thing to be aware of in restaurants is not handing over your bank cards to waiters. Always make payments yourself to ensure that nobody is noting down your account details.
Traveller Highlights in the Czech Republic:
- Bathe in beer! Calling all booze lovers, this one is for you! Why not treat yourself to one of Prague’s beer spas? A soak in this amber nectar is sure to have you feeling revitalised!
- Visit Český Krumlov Castle. This dramatic fortress is a blend of several architectural styles including Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance.
- Go Goth at Sedlec Ossuary. Also known as the ‘Bone Church’, this Roman Catholic chapel contains the remains of between 40,000 and 70,000 people!
- Explore Bohemian Paradise. This is a protected region close to Prague. Looking like a scene straight out of Avatar, it is most recognisable for its unique and imposing rock formations.
- Indulge your appetite in Brno. This trendy city is home to a huge variety of delicious eateries and restaurants. And if drinks are more your jam, take your pick from countless wine bars and microbreweries.
What are your thoughts on this list of the safest countries in Europe? Is there anywhere else you’ve felt really safe when travelling that we’ve missed?
UPDATED: Where can I travel in Europe? A list of COVID entry rules for every European country
Spain, Luxembourg, Netherlands, France, Malta, Portugal, Finland, Germany, Estonia, Italy, Cyprus, Austria and Greece no longer have any COVID-19 travel restrictions for visitors.
Passengers flying in the EU no longer need to wear masks in airports or aboard flights. Some countries have chosen to ignore this ruling and still require masks. Check the rules before you fly here.
Visitors to Belgium from outside the EU no longer need to show any COVID-19 paperwork to enter.
Masks are no longer mandatory in Spain and mainland Portugal, except on public transport.
This article is updated regularly, but rules can change quickly. So please check official government advice before travelling.
Albania
- There are currently no COVID-19 travel restrictions for those wishing to visit Albania.
Andorra
- Travel to and from the country is open but access to Andorra requires passing through either Spain or France, so check their travel restrictions, too, before planning your trip.
More information here.
Austria
All COVID-19 entry restrictions have been lifted for those visiting Austria.
While face masks are no longer required in most parts of the country, you must still wear a FFP2 face mask on public transport and in pharmacies in Vienna.
Belarus
All travel to Belarus should be avoided, due to the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws and the armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
It’s still possible to travel to Belarus by air under certain restrictions, but land travel for leisure is currently banned.
There are currently no COVID-19 travel restrictions for entering Belarus.
More information here.
Belgium
- Belgium have now scrapped all their COVID=19 travel restrictions for all visitors.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Tourists can now visit Bosnia and Herzegovina with no COVID-19 travel restrictions.
People now only need to wear mask in healthcare facilities.
The Bosnia and Herzegovina border police are publishing regular updates about foreign travel here.
Bulgaria
- Bulgaria no longer requires visitors to provide proof of vaccination or a negative test to enter the country.
More information here.
Croatia
- All travellers may enter Croatia without any COVID-19 restrictions.
More information here.
Cyprus
All COVID-19 entry requirements for Cyprus have been dropped.
You no longer need to wear a face mask indoors, except in high-risk areas such as hospitals public transport and pharmacies.
More information here.
Czech Republic
- There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for EU or Non-EU travellers visiting Czech Republic.
Denmark
Denmark has dropped all travel restrictions for international tourists.
Rules may be re-introduced at short notice for high risk countries. The government says it has a ‘handbrake’ it can activate if concerning variants emerge.
More information here.
Estonia
- Estonia has scrapped all COVID-19 travel restrictions for visitors from every country.
Finland
Travel to Finland is now restriction-free for all visitors. Visitors from the EU, Schengen travel areas and green list countries can enter Finland with no travel restrictions.
The Finnish Border Guard gives advice on cross-border traffic by phone and email. The service is available in Finnish, Swedish and English on weekdays between 8.00 and 16.00 at +358 295 420 100. Questions can also be sent by email to rajavartiolaitos@raja.fi.
More information here.
France
All visitors can now enter France without any COVID paperwork.
It is no longer mandatory to wear a mask in healthcare settings thought it is still encouraged.
Germany
Connected to the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC), which allows restriction-free travel across all EU and EEA countries following proof of vaccination and a negative COVID test.
All travellers can now enter Germany without showing any COVID-19 paperwork. This is expected to be in place until 31 January 2023.
However, due to a lack of a reciprocity agreement between the two countries, this doesn’t apply to those travelling from the People’s Republic of China who still need to provide an essential reason for their entry to Germany.
Anyone over the age of 14 must wear a FFP2 facemask on long distance trains in Germany. Children aged 6-13 also have to wear a facemask but it doesn’t have to be a FFP2.
Greece
All travellers can enter Greece without any COVID-19 restrictions.
If you test positive whilst you’re there, you no longer have to quarantine. Though if you want to take public transport whilst infected you will need to wear an FFP2 or a KN95 face mask.
Masks are now only mandatory in healthcare settings and on urban public transport.
Hungary
All travellers can visit Hungary without any COVID-19 restrictions.
Masks are no longer mandatory except for in hospitals and other health care venues.
More information here.
Iceland
Iceland has dropped all domestic and border restrictions. This means that no restrictions will be enforced at the border and all passengers will be able to enter Iceland whether they are vaccinated or not.
Ireland
Travellers who plan to enter Ireland are no longer subject to entry requirements after the authorities decided to abolish all the restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19.
Though mandatory mask wearing has been scrapped, the Irish government advises that masks continue to be worn on public transport.
More information here.
Italy
Visitors to Italy are no longer required to show any COVID-19 paperwork to enter.
Although not mandatory, masks are still recommended at large indoor and crowded outdoor events.
More information here.
Kosovo
- There are currently no covid-19 travel restrictions for those wishing to visit Kosovo.
- Whilst in Kosovo, you must wear a mask on public transport and in all indoor public places as well as respecting one metre social distancing rules.
- More information here.
Latvia
- All travellers are now welcome in Latvia, regardless of vaccination status, and with no need to take a COVID test.
More information here.
Liechtenstein
There are currently no COVID-19 restrictions for travellers visiting Liechtenstein.
Liechtenstein follows Switzerland’s travel advice, so make sure you check their restrictions at the time of travel.
EU Making It Easier For Travelers To Move Between Countries
EU Council building (Photo Credit: Alexandros Michailidis / Shutterstock.com)
Travel in the European Union (EU) during the COVID-19 pandemic has been problematic because travel restrictions are based on the current rate of infection in the country travelers are leaving. Now, however, that’s about to change.
Earlier this week, the EU’s 27 member ministers agreed at a meeting of the General Affairs Council to streamline travel requirements across the EU by relying on a traveler’s proof of COVID-19 vaccination, recovery, or a negative test taken before departure, a Politico article reports.
“We should move to the person-based approach,” Maros Sefcovic, European Commission vice president, said ahead of the meeting, an Associated Press article reports. “That approach relies on how you as a person are protected against the possible infection and not on the country by country or regional basis [of infection].”
The change in travel requirement was made to “take into account the advantage of the individual situation of people, especially vaccinated people, and limit for them as much as possible travel restrictions in Europe,” Clément Beaune, France’s European Affairs secretary, said ahead of the meeting, Politico reports.
The “coordinated approach to facilitate safe free movement during the COVID-19 pandemic,” which is due to a significant increase in vaccine rates and the roll-out of the EU digital COVID certificate, will go into effect on February 1, 2022, the EU announced.
The New Approach
“Under the new recommendation, COVID-19 measures should be applied taking into account the status of the person instead of the situation at regional level, with the exception of areas where the virus is circulating at very high levels,” the EU announced. “This means that a traveler’s COVID-19 vaccination, test or recovery status, as evidenced by a valid EU digital COVID certificate, should be the key determinant. A person-based approach will substantially simplify the applicable rules and will provide additional clarity and predictability to travelers.”
Here’s what that entails.
Beginning February 1, travelers with a valid EU digital COVID certificate will not face “additional restrictions to free movement.”
A valid EU digital COVID certificate includes a vaccination certificate documenting that the traveler received the final dose of an EU-approved COVID-19 vaccination at least 14 days before traveling and that it has not been more than 270 days since they received the vaccination or booster dose.
Alternatively, the EU digital COVID certificate can also show proof of a certificate of recovery documenting that it has not been more than 180 days since the traveler received their first positive test result.
Finally, for those who are not vaccinated, travelers can provide proof of a negative PCR test to travel. That test result must have been received no more than 72 hours before travel. If the traveler took a negative rapid antigen test, that test result must have been received no more than 24 hours before travel.
An Important Caveat
The EU has also announced that the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) will continue to publish its color-coded map of member states’ regions that indicates the potential risk of infection based on the 14-day case notification rate, vaccination rate, and testing rate.
“Based on this map, member states should apply measures [or the so-called ‘emergency brake’] regarding travel to and from dark red areas, where the virus is circulating at very high levels,” the EU continues. “They should, in particular, discourage all non-essential travel and require persons arriving from those areas who are not in possession of a vaccination or recovery certificate to undergo a test prior to departure and to quarantine after arrival.”
It should be pointed out, however, that most of the EU currently falls into that category.
Know Before You Go
Anyone traveling from country to country within the EU also needs to complete a Digital Passenger Locator Forms. This form is used by contact tracing authorities when travelers cross borders while in close proximity to each other, such as in airplanes or trains.
You can find more information about the Digital Passenger Locator Forms and other details about traveling between European countries here.
Travel restrictions and guidelines continue to change rapidly as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Be sure to follow our COVID-19 coverage for the latest pandemic news.
And for more stories developing internationally, check out our recent travel news:
Jim Fulcher has been a writer and editor his entire career. In addition to writing, he also enjoys traveling–particularly in an RV. Over the course of numerous trips, Jim has driven an RV through West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wyoming. His favorite national park is Yellowstone, which he has visited three times.
Source https://europebackpacker.com/safest-european-countries/
Source https://www.euronews.com/travel/2022/10/21/what-s-the-latest-on-european-travel-restrictions
Source https://www.travelawaits.com/2727276/european-union-rules-for-traveling-from-country-to-country/